A delegation from the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), the umbrella body promoting Anioma culture, has visited Obior Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State to commiserate with the monarch and people of the community over the passing of the organisation’s founding patron and former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief B.S.C. Elue.
The delegation, led by the traditional rulers as patrons and OFAAC President, first paid homage to the Obi of Obior Kingdom, HRM Obi Kingsley Ofuokwu III, before proceeding with the monarch to the country home of the late Elue, who also held the traditional title of Okwalegwe of Obior Kingdom.
During the condolence visit, the Obi of Ubulu-Uno Kingdom, HRM Obi Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu, and the President of OFAAC, Arc. Kester Ifeadi, paid tribute to the late statesman, highlighting his contributions to the advancement of Anioma culture and the development of OFAAC.
Obi Kikachukwu, who also serves as the 2nd Vice Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, described Chief Elue as a peaceful and supportive figure who stood firmly behind OFAAC throughout his lifetime.
He expressed condolences to the widow and children of the deceased, noting that the traditional rulers as patrons of OFAAC and OFAAC management considered it a priority to lead the delegation of Anioma people on the condolence visit.
According to him, OFAAC has significantly enhanced the visibility of Anioma traditional institutions, stressing that the traditional rulers would continue to support the organisation in pursuing initiatives that promote the collective interests of Anioma people.
In his remarks, OFAAC President Arc. Ifeadi also praised the late Elue for his commitment and service to the Anioma cause, noting that although some critics had misinterpreted his role in the organisation as politically motivated, he remained steadfast in his support. Diokpa Elue remained committed to OFAAC and contributed immensely to its growth over the past 23 years,” he said. “We cannot tell the story of OFAAC without acknowledging the legacy contributions of Chief Elue to the Anioma nation.”
He added that the organisation would greatly miss Elue’s fatherly guidance and support.
“On behalf of the entire Anioma people, OFAAC commiserates with the family of our father and founding patron. It is our sincere prayer that God grants the family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Ifeadi said.
The OFAAC President later signed the condolence register on behalf of the Anioma nation.
Members of the delegation included the Obi of Ubulu-Uno Kingdom, HRM Obi Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu; the Obi of Ukala Kingdom, HRM Obi Clement Ifeanyinachukwu Ejiofor; the Obi of Umunede Kingdom, HRM Agadagidi Ezeagwu Ezenweali; the Obi of Abala Kingdom, HRM Obi Frederick Egbunkonye; the host monarch, the Obi of Obior Kingdom, HRM Obi Kingsley Ofuokwu III; and the OFAAC President, Arc. Kester Ifeadi.
Other members included OFAAC Vice President Mr. Paddy Ugboh; Director Mr. Emmanuel Ogwu; National Coordinator Prince Andrew Obiokolie; Chairman of the OFAAC Aniocha North Chapter Mr. Chukwuma Adigwe; and several other members of the organisation.